Intermediate
Technical
IVT
emergent intubation
Urgent placement of an endotracheal tube to secure the airway in critically ill or injured patients.
Full Definition
The immediate insertion of an endotracheal tube to establish a definitive airway in patients with actual or impending respiratory failure, altered mental status, or need for emergency surgery. Unlike elective intubation, emergent intubation is performed under suboptimal conditions with limited preparation time, often requiring rapid sequence induction to minimize aspiration risk. Documentation should include indication, method, number of attempts, and any complications encountered.
Usage
Usage note: Always document the indication for emergent intubation and number of attempts required.
In Context
- "Emergent intubation was performed using rapid sequence induction due to the patient's declining mental status." — Emergency medicine procedure note
- "The trauma patient required emergent intubation in the field prior to helicopter transport." — EMS transfer documentation
Also known as
crash intubation
emergency airway management
Contrasted with
elective intubation
planned extubation
Don't confuse with
awake intubation
fiber-optic intubation